This 1967 Ferrari 330 P3/4 VIN 0846 is the only P3/4 which was built as a P3 by Ferrari. It was modified in December 1966 to accept a P4 engine and its wheelbase changed from the P3 2412mm to the P4 2400mm. It retained its P3 nose and chassis becoming a P3/4. This vehicle was damaged in an accident at Le Mans and was discarded by Ferrari. Recently, many components of the original P3/4 0846 have resurfaced in the possession of the current owner. Although both he and the former owner, David Piper, thought it was one of four replica chassis constructed with the blessing of Enzo Ferrari in the late 1960s. It appears that nearly all of the tube frame chassis and other components from the wrecked P3/4 are part of this car. While Ferrari insists the 0846 was scrapped and is no more, the evidence is overwhelming that this is the car. The car’s transmission, engine heads and steering rack also include the correct LeMans scrutinizing marks.
The P3/4 0846 was road testeded by Car and Driver magazine and the current owner has driven this car this at the Historic Targa Florio.
Background
- Manufacturer: Ferrari, the renowned Italian sports car manufacturer known for its dominance in various forms of motorsport.
- Year: 1967
- Model: 330 P3/4
Specifications
- Engine: The 330 P3/4 is powered by a 4.0-liter (3967 cc) V12 engine. This engine, designed by Mauro Forghieri, features a DOHC (dual overhead camshaft) configuration with three valves per cylinder, producing around 450 horsepower.
- Chassis: The car features a lightweight tubular steel spaceframe chassis, designated Tipo 603. The chassis is designed to be both strong and lightweight, enhancing the car's performance.
- Body: The body is made from lightweight materials such as fiberglass and aluminum, contributing to the car's overall lightness and aerodynamic efficiency.
Design and Aerodynamics
- Design: The 330 P3/4 boasts a sleek and aggressive design typical of Ferrari's mid-1960s racing cars. It features a low, wide stance with an emphasis on aerodynamics. The car's design includes a long nose, a flowing body, and a distinctive rear deck.
- Aerodynamics: Aerodynamic efficiency was a key focus in the design of the 330 P3/4. The car features an integrated rear spoiler and carefully sculpted bodywork to minimize drag and maximize downforce, improving stability at high speeds.
Performance
- Speed: The 330 P3/4 is capable of reaching top speeds in excess of 200 mph (320 km/h), making it one of the fastest racing cars of its time.
- Handling: The car's advanced suspension system, which includes independent double wishbones and coil springs at all four corners, provides exceptional handling and responsiveness. The lightweight chassis and powerful engine combine to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
Racing History
- 24 Hours of Daytona (1967): The 330 P3/4 achieved significant success in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona, where Ferrari secured a 1-2-3 finish, with the P3/4 taking first place. This victory was particularly sweet for Ferrari as it came at the expense of their main rival, Ford.
- 24 Hours of Le Mans (1967): At the 1967 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 330 P3/4 continued to showcase its prowess, finishing second behind the Ford GT40. The car's performance at Le Mans further cemented its reputation as one of Ferrari's greatest endurance racers.
Legacy
- Iconic Status: The 330 P3/4 is considered one of the most beautiful and technically advanced racing cars ever built. Its design, performance, and racing achievements have made it an icon in the world of motorsport.
- Collector's Item: Due to its rarity and historical significance, the 330 P3/4 is highly coveted by collectors. Only a handful of these cars were ever built, making them incredibly valuable and sought after at auctions and private sales.
- Cultural Impact: The 330 P3/4 has been immortalized in various forms of media, including films, documentaries, and books, celebrating its role in Ferrari's racing legacy and its contribution to the golden era of motorsport.
You may purchase a print of the 1967 Ferrari 330 P3/4 in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.